// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
ARRW
ARRW, short for Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon, was a prototype hypersonic missile program developed by the U.S. Air Force designed to be launched from an aircraft and strike targets at extremely high speeds, far exceeding the speed of sound.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW), officially designated AGM-183A, is a boost-glide hypersonic missile system developed by Lockheed Martin for the U.S. Air Force, conceptualized to deliver rapid, long-range, air-launched strike capabilities by deploying a hypersonic glide body at speeds exceeding Mach 5.
BACKGROUND
The AGM-183 ARRW is a hypersonic air-to-ground ballistic missile planned for use by the United States Air Force. Developed by Lockheed Martin, the boost-glide vehicle is propelled to a maximum speed of more than Mach 5 by a rocket motor before gliding toward its target. The program was initially cancelled in March 2023 after multiple failed tests and despite multiple announced cancellations and resumptions of development, development has quietly continued and in 2025 the Air Force announced plans to fund ARRW in FY 2026, with the intent to begin procurement. In 2026, the Air Force announced that its FY 27 budget would include funding for an Increment 2 variant of ARRW with undisclosed enhanced capabilities. Simultaneously, they announced plans for life-extension modifications to the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress bomber, developing it as a "standoff" strike weapon, fitting it with external pylons capable of carrying up to 6 AGM-183 missiles per aircraft.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon
- AGM-183A
- Hypersonic Boost-Glide Weapon
- Hypersonic Air-Launched Weapon
USAGE NOTE
ARRW represented a critical U.S. effort to develop operational hypersonic strike capabilities, but its development has faced significant challenges and is currently planned for cancellation by the Air Force.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to ARRW.
The prime contractor for the AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) program, responsible for its design, development, and integration.
The primary customer and lead agency for the ARRW program, overseeing its development, testing, and eventual deployment as part of its hypersonic weapons strategy.
Provides critical propulsion technology, specifically the solid rocket booster, for the ARRW system, enabling it to reach hypersonic speeds.
A major defense contractor developing advanced hypersonic weapons, including the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM), which represents similar technological challenges and objectives to ARRW.
Engaged in the development of various hypersonic technologies and programs, including propulsion and airframe components for advanced missile systems, and partners on programs like HACM, which aligns with the objectives of ARRW.